5 Best LLC Formation Services in Ohio (Dec 2023)

Best Ohio LLC Services for 2023: Ready to launch a business? Starting an Ohio LLC is your first big move.

With so many LLC formation services out there, each claiming to be the top choice, it’s easy to feel lost.

What if you had a clear, easy-to-follow guide pointing you straight to the best options?

That’s where LLCBuddy comes in. Our team has researched and vetted the top LLC services in Ohio just for you. Dive into our list, compare features and prices, and find the perfect fit for your business. Start your Ohio LLC journey with confidence. Check out the best Ohio LLC services from below.

Check #1 Best LLC Service in Ohio

On this page, you’ll learn about the following:

Best LLC Formation Services in Ohio
How to Form an LLC in Ohio
How to Choose the Best LLC Formation Service in Ohio
Why Ohio is One of the Best Places for Business
Why Ohio is One of the Best Places for Business
Why Ohio is One of the Best Places for Business
Why Ohio is One of the Best Places for Business
Conclusion

Best LLC Formation Services in Ohio

Here is the list of best LLC services available in Ohio. The best thing about these services is starting your LLC for free. Some of the following services are offering LLC formation in Ohio at $0. Other than the state fees and charges, you do not have to pay any charges to the service provider. You will get the basic formation package for free. Now, let’s check out the list of best LLC formation service providers in Ohio-

LLC Service	Our Rating & Pricing	Top Features	Learn More
#1 TOP PICK	4.5/5 $0 + State Fees	100% accuracy guarantee Worry-free service Great customer support	Learn More
	4/5	Established reputation Extras are bit more expensive Good customer support	Learn More

Below is the list of the best LLC formation services in Ohio we picked for you.

ZenBusiness – Known for its affordable packages and efficient service, ZenBusiness has become a favorite among new entrepreneurs.
LegalZoom – With years of industry experience, LegalZoom offers comprehensive services and a vast array of legal resources.
Northwest Registered Agent – Praised for its top-notch customer service, Northwest ensures personalized assistance and detailed compliance guidance.
BetterLegal – Speed is BetterLegal’s forte, promising the fastest LLC formation process in the market.
TailorBrands – Beyond LLC services, TailorBrands stands out with its branding solutions, making it a one-stop shop for budding businesses.

Our Editorial Team selects these companies through thorough research and market study. It is recommended that you cross-check all the factors before choosing the right one for your business.

1. ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness is a Texas-based company that provides services from formation to annual compliance to an LLC. It offers three plans, Starter, Pro, and Premium. The Starter plan starts from $0. That means you can form your LLC for free in Ohio, though you must pay the state filing fee of $99 to the Ohio Secretary of State. But, the company charges nothing to form your business in the state.

ZenBusiness Plans

Starter Plan at $0 + state filing fee
Pro Plan at $199/year + state filing fee
Premium Plan at $299/year + state filing fee

ZenBusiness Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get ZenBusiness	Why You Should Not Get ZenBusiness
100% accuracy rate	Does not form Ohio nonprofit
Free LLC formation in Ohio	Additional cost for EIN
User friendly
Standalone Statutory Agent services

ZenBusiness Overview

ZenBusiness is one of those top-rated companies that provide business formation in Ohio at a minimum cost (currently at $0). There is no charge to be paid to the company for forming your LLC in Ohio. The state filing fee and other necessary fees must be paid, including the registered agent fee.

ZenBusiness offers three plans, among which the Pro plan is recommended. The Pro plan has everything you need to start an LLC in Ohio. Obtaining EIN, operating agreement drafting, name search, and all other services are available with the rush filing feature.

Form LLC in Ohio with ZenBusiness

2. LegalZoom

LegalZoom is one of the service providers in Ohio that offers free LLC formation services. If you want to avoid spending money to form your LLC, then LegalZoom is for you. It offers various formation packages that include all types of LLC services. Aside from LLC formation, LegalZoom offers C and S corp formation. With over thousands of customers, the company offers basic LLC formation services at $0.

LegalZoom Plans

Basic Package- $0 + State Filing Fees (Tax deduction may be applicable)
Pro Package – $249 + State Filing Fees (Tax deductible may be applicable)
Premium Package – $279 + State Filing Fees (Tax deduction may be applicable)

Apart from these packages, LegalZoom offers a bunch of add-on services as well. Add-on services include the following-

Registered Agent – $299 per year. Available as an add-on and not included in any packages
Trademark registration: Assisting with the US trademark application process
Copyright registration: Guidance on registering copyrights for creative works
Patent services: Support in obtaining utility, design, and plant patents
Estate planning: Offering personalized wills, trusts, and power of attorney documents
Legal advice: Access to a network of lawyers for consultations and legal guidance
Expedited Filing: With an additional $99, you can speed up your filing process.

LegalZoom Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get LegalZoom	Why You Shouldn’t Get LegalZoom
Free LLC formation	Expensive add-ons, such as Registered Agent
Trustworthy and established reputation	Higher pricing compared to some competitors
Quick turnaround time	Less number of add-on options
Access to legal professionals	Some additional fees not included in plan prices
Customer support available through phone or chat	Mixed customer reviews

LegalZoom Overview

LegalZoom is one of the oldest companies in USA. This company is a service provider offering LLC formation at $0. It offers three broad packages, Basic, Pro, and Premium. The Basic package costs $0. Though you must pay the Ohio filing fee while filing the Articles of Organization with the Ohio Secretary of State. The filing fee depends on which method, mail, online, or any other method you choose.

LegalZoom offers vast add-ones like others. Hence, the chances of getting diverse services are comparatively high. The best part about the company is there is an access to legal documents and legal consultation. The registered agent service is a bit expensive. If you want to hire Statutory Agent from LegalZoom, you must purchase that service separately, it does not come with any formation plans.

Form LLC in Ohio with LegalZoom

3. Northwest Registered Agent

Northwest Registered Agent is a family-owned business based in Spoken, Washington state. The company offers LLC formation, registered agent service, annual compliances, and other business-related services in all 50 states, including Ohio. It offers LLC formation at $ 39+ state fees and registered agent service at $125 yearly.

Northwest Plans

Northwest does not have conventional packages. It offers Core, Business maintenance, and business development services. Under these categories, various services are available at a flat rate. Some of the services offered by Northwest in Ohio are listed below-

LLC formation in Ohio at $39 + state filing fee
Registered Agent at $125 yearly
Annual report filing at $100 + state filing fee
Obtaining EIN at $50
Northwest offers National Agent Service. If you operate your LLC Statutory Agent in 5 or more states, you can pay $100 + state fees (if applicable) to get a single agent for all states.

Northwest Registered Agent Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get Northwest	Why You Should Not Get Northwest
DIY Packages for your LLC in Ohio	Not BBB accredited
No plans, flat rate for all services	Additional charges to obtain EIN in Ohio
Purchase only the service you need to form Ohio LLC.	The operating agreement draft is not included in the Core services
Northwest offers standalone Statutory Agent service in Ohio

Northwest Registered Agent Overview

Northwest is one of those service providers that offer DIY packages. Northwest is not for you if you want a wholesome formation package in Ohio. It does not have conventional LLC formation packages. It is simply like a departmental store for you. You don’t need to buy everything, but the only thing you need.

Northwest has in-house corporate guides to guide you through the formation process. It offers LLC formation at $39 plus the state filing fee ($99). If you have already formed your LLC in Ohio and are willing to appoint Statutory Agent only, then Northwest can provide a standalone registered agent service at $125 per year.

Northwest offers single flat rates for all services in Ohio and other states. The best part about the company is it does not outsource any of its services. Northwest offers corporate guides to help you through the steps of LLC formation.

Form LLC in Ohio with Northwest Registered Agent

4. BetterLegal

BetterLegal is a comparatively new company than other competitors. But this company has successfully grabbed a large portion of the market in the United States. Serving in 51 states, BetterLegal has been in business since 2016. Unlike other experienced companies, it does not have a list of packages and plans for LLC formation.

BetterLegal Plans

BetterLegal offers one single plan at a flat $299 + state filing fees. It has a list of add-on services as well. BetterLegal is an online service that started off with a very small team. However, even after being in the business for so long, they didn’t increase their team size much. They have transparent pricing, and no hidden charge exists for any services they provide.

BetterLegal offers a list of add-on services. Following are the additional services they offer-

Registered Agent service – $10/month or $90/year
State Annual compliance services – $10/month or $90/year
Permit & License Search Service – $125
Amendment & document research – Free with the core formation service package

BetterLegal Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get BetterLegal	Why You Shouldn’t Get BetterLegal
No refund; all sales are final	The basic package does not include registered agent service
Quick Turnaround time	Additional charge for EIN
A+ BBB Accredited	The basic package does not include a registered agent service
Single plan for all incorporation

BetterLegal Overview

Even though the company is called BetterLegal, no attorneys or legal services are available. The company offers a single plan for all types of business formation. Hence, if you are planning to form a corporation, you can pay $299 + incorporation fee ($99 for online and by mail filing in Ohio). It offers comparatively better turnaround time at a reasonable price than other companies. You can file your LLC within 10 minutes with BetterLegal.

It offers a resource center for new entrepreneurs. They provide guidance to make things easier when it comes to filing your business. Their small team sometimes fails to cater to their customers on time. Reaching out to their customer support team is very difficult. Another disadvantage is it does not have a refund policy. All sales with BetterLegal are final, and at any stage, upon cancelation, no refund is made. However, basic LLC formation and registered agent services are much cheaper in BetterLegal than in other close competitors.

Form LLC in Ohio with BetterLegal

5. TailorBrands

Do you want to create a brand for your business in Ohio? Here is the LLC formation service provider, TailorBrands, for you. The company was established in 2015 in New York, and since then, it has offered several incredible services to set up your business. TailorBrands has a single LLC formation plan that starts at $49 a year. You can choose different other add-on services at an additional cost.

TailorBrands Services

TailorBrands offer a single plan for forming an LLC at $49. There are some basic services that TailorBrands offer, including starting an LLC, filing it, Ohio name availability search, priority support, and so on. You can use their add-on services as and when required. Add-ons are-

Registered Agent Service – $199/year
Employment ID Number (EIN) – $99 (one-time pay)
Annual Compliances – $299/year
Operating Agreement – $29
Expedited Filing – $49
Business bank account – Free

TailorBrands Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get TailorBrands	Why You Shouldn’t Get TailorBrands
Low-cost LLC formation	Not BBB Accredited
Free business bank accounts	No business domain packages
Hassle-free LLC formation	Additional charges to obtain EIN
Additional services like logo, website, domain

TailorBrands Overview

TailorBrands does not have vast LLC formation packages. Instead, it has a single package that includes the formation of LLCs. The name availability search is unlimited, and you don’t have to pay any additional fees. The state filing fee of $99 must be paid apart from the charges you pay for add-ons.

TailorBrands offers other business services such as logo making, domain, website, business bank account, merchandise, and other business services. As a small or start-up business, you must go for TailorBrands.

Form LLC in Ohio with TailorBrands

How to Form an LLC in Ohio

Ohio, popularly known as The Buckeye State, is a business-friendly state with a population of 11,878,330. The Nominal Gross Domestic Product (in millions) of Ohio is $829,594 according to a 2022 study, which has been said to be increased over the past year. Hence, starting your business in Ohio will always be a good option. If you choose the state capital, Columbus, to start your LLC, you might get more tax and other benefits.

To form an LLC in Ohio, you need to follow some basic steps, including getting an LLC name, appointing your Ohio Statutory Agent, filing the Ohio Articles of Organization, creating Ohio LLC operating agreement, and finally getting an EIN for filing required taxes.

You can do that on your own. However, it is always recommended to get a professional person on board to guide you through. These steps are crucial and sensitive. You must complete everything to avoid canceling your formation process. Hence, having a professional LLC formation service for your LLC is better.

How to Choose the Best LLC Formation Service in Ohio

It is important to choose the best service for your business carefully. Before you select the best one, make sure you thoroughly research on following points-

Reputation: Look for a company with a good reputation. Check reviews and ratings from previous clients to see how they feel about the services offered.
Experience: Choose a company with years of LLC formation experience. This ensures that they have knowledge of the process and can provide quality services.
Cost: Compare prices between different companies. Choose a company that offers affordable pricing for the services you need.
Customer Service: Ensure that the company has good customer service. They should be responsive, helpful, and willing to answer any questions.
Services Offered: Look for a company that offers a range of services, including entity formation, registered agent services, and ongoing compliance support to ensure your LLC remains in good standing.
Ease of Use: Choose a company with a user-friendly website and easy-to-use online platform. This makes the process of forming an LLC simple and straightforward.
Guarantees: Check if the company offers a satisfaction guarantee or a refund policy. This gives you peace of mind that you are getting the best possible service.

Why Ohio is One of the Best Places for Business

First and foremost, Ohio’s geographical positioning provides businesses with crucial advantages. Located in the heart of the Midwest, Ohio serves as a hub for transportation and logistics. This central location presents businesses with unparalleled connectivity to major markets across the United States. With a well-developed interstate highway system and an extensive network of rail lines, businesses in Ohio can easily transport their goods to customers, suppliers, and distribution centers in a cost-effective and timely manner.

Moreover, Ohio’s emphasis on education and innovation serves as a strong foundation for business growth. The state boasts top-tier universities and research institutions, which consistently produce a skilled workforce and promote technological advancements. The collaborative relationship between Ohio’s academic institutions and industries has fostered an ecosystem that fuels innovation and supports the needs of businesses. From engineering programs to business schools, Ohio’s educational institutions prepare students to tackle the demands and challenges of modern work environments, making it an attractive destination for companies seeking a talented and well-educated workforce.

In addition to these locational and educational advantages, Ohio’s business policies are designed to encourage and support entrepreneurial endeavors. The state government has a business-friendly approach that promotes economic growth and simplifies bureaucratic processes. Ohio offers various financial incentives and tax credits to help businesses thrive, whether they are small startups or large corporations. These measures not only attract companies to Ohio but also encourage existing businesses to invest in expansion and job creation.

Notably, Ohio is exceptionally diverse in terms of industry, further strengthening its appeal to businesses. From manufacturing and information technology to healthcare and finance, Ohio serves as a fertile ground for numerous sectors. This diversification promotes a stable economy, as businesses from various industries can find their place and flourish within the state. Furthermore, Ohio’s cornerstone industries, such as manufacturing and automotive, benefit from the skilled workforce and robust supply chain ecosystem, strengthening their competitive edge.

Finally, Ohio’s quality of life plays a significant role in making it one of the best places for business. The state offers a rich cultural heritage, vibrant cities, and beautiful landscapes, providing a high quality of life for both employees and employers. Ohioans enjoy affordable housing, excellent healthcare facilities, and ample recreational opportunities, making it an ideal place to live, work, and raise a family. Happy and satisfied employees lead to higher productivity, employee retention, and enhanced company performance, all of which are vital for the sustained success of businesses.

It is no surprise that Ohio continues to attract and retain renowned businesses, both large and small. The state’s advantageous location, emphasis on education and innovation, business-friendly policies, industry diversity, and exceptional quality of life make it an appealing choice for entrepreneurs and companies seeking the best environment to operate, grow, and prosper. Whether it is manufacturing, technology, or any other field, Ohio provides businesses with the ideal platform to excel and succeed in an increasingly competitive global economy.

Why Ohio is One of the Best Places for Business

One of the key factors that make Ohio an enticing choice for businesses of all industries is its diverse and robust economy. The state has a well-rounded mixture of sectors, ranging from advanced manufacturing to technology, healthcare to agriculture. This diversity ensures that businesses of all kinds can find their footing and succeed in Ohio. Whether a company is looking to expand, invest, or establish its roots, Ohio’s economy provides a fertile ground for growth and prosperity.

Ohio’s greatest asset, however, lies within its workforce – a testament to the state’s commitment to education. The Buckeye State is home to numerous highly regarded universities and educational institutions, producing a pipeline of top-tier talent year after year. Many of Ohio’s educational institutions actively partner with businesses, specializing in research and development, skill training, and entrepreneurship, forging a strong link between academia and the business world. This collaboration creates a dynamic workforce, capable of meeting the evolving demands of the modern economy. Businesses in Ohio can tap into this exceptional talent pool, giving them a competitive edge in the global marketplace.

Moreover, one cannot discuss Ohio’s allure for businesses without mentioning the state’s business-friendly environment. Ohio has long recognized that supporting businesses leads to economic prosperity for all. With a reasonable tax structure, competitive incentives, and friendly regulations, the Buckeye State is undoubtedly conducive to business growth and prosperity. Whether it’s through investing in infrastructure or implementing policies that prioritize businesses and entrepreneurship, Ohio’s government stays committed to creating an environment in which businesses can thrive.

Furthermore, Ohio’s strategic location makes it an ideal choice for businesses looking to connect with both domestic and international markets. Situated at the heart of the Midwest, Ohio boasts an extensive network of highways, railways, and airports, granting businesses easy access to major metropolitan areas nationwide. This accessibility allows businesses based in Ohio to efficiently transport their goods and services and facilitate robust commerce, creating opportunities for growth and expansion far beyond state lines.

Lastly, Ohio takes pride not only in attracting external businesses but also in nurturing its own entrepreneurs. With a thriving support system comprising business incubators, accelerators, and mentorship programs, Ohio actively fosters the growth of startups and small businesses. By cultivating an atmosphere conducive to entrepreneurship, the state has become a breeding ground for innovative ideas and promising ventures, cementing Ohio as a hub of business excellence.

In conclusion, Ohio’s diverse economy, talented workforce, business-friendly environment, strategic location, and flourishing entrepreneurial ecosystem make it one of the best places for businesses to prosper. No matter the size or nature of the company, the Buckeye State offers a nurturing and fruitful environment for businesses to flourish, expand, and achieve success. With its business-friendly policies and commitment to education and innovation, Ohio remains a beacon of opportunity, drawing both established and aspiring businesses into its vibrant and thriving economy.

Why Ohio is One of the Best Places for Business

To begin, Ohio, known as the “Buckeye State,” is blessed with a breathtaking landscape that offers immense potential for businesses. From the shores of Lake Erie to the stunning rolling hills of Appalachia, the state offers a diverse and picturesque environment that immensely contributes to the quality of life. This undoubtedly attracts talented individuals who are seeking both professional and personal fulfillment. With a highly qualified workforce, businesses can thrive within a skilled labor pool that is ready to meet the demands of diverse markets and industries.

Moreover, Ohio’s strategic geographic positioning adds to its allure. Nestled within the heart of the Midwest, the state serves as a hub for transportation and commerce. The efficient logistic networks, well-connected highway system, and proximity to major cities and ports give businesses access to extensive markets across the country. This advantageous location can drastically reduce transportation and distribution costs, providing companies with a competitive edge.

Furthermore, one cannot overlook the state’s commitment to fostering business growth and development. Ohio has long recognized that businesses are the backbone of its economy. Therefore, it has created a range of initiatives, programs, and tax incentives designed to support new startups and encourage the expansion of existing companies. By investing in innovation, research, and development, Ohio demonstrates its commitment to staying at the forefront of cutting-edge industries. This environment provides an ideal breeding ground for companies looking to flourish and succeed in both established and emerging sectors.

Additionally, Ohio’s dynamic and diverse economy should not be overlooked. The state possesses a balanced mix of industries, ranging from manufacturing and healthcare to automotive and technology. This diversified economy minimizes the risk associated with relying too heavily on one particular sector and ensures stability and continued growth. It also enables businesses to tap into a broad customer base, enhancing their market potential and resilience.

Lastly, Ohio possesses a strong sense of community and a deep-rooted tradition of hard work and perseverance. The people of Ohio are known for their friendly demeanor and their commitment to helping one another succeed. This unique cultural aspect provides businesses with a supportive environment, making it easier to establish professional networks, partnerships, and collaborations.

In conclusion, Ohio persistently solidifies its position as one of the best places for business due to its unparalleled attributes. The state’s diverse natural environment, strategic geographic positioning, dedication to fostering development, vibrant and diverse economy, and a supportive community all contribute to its success. Ohio has a constant momentum, proving to be a driving force for businesses of all shapes and sizes. Thus, it is no surprise that established enterprises and ambitious entrepreneurs are drawn to the Buckeye State to achieve their dreams of thriving in the world of commerce.

Why Ohio is One of the Best Places for Business

First and foremost, Ohio boasts a strategic location that puts businesses in the heart of it all. Nestled in the geographic center of the United States, Ohio provides unparalleled access to major markets and tradeshows. With a well-developed transportation infrastructure, businesses can easily reach clients and customers across the country. Whether it’s shipping goods by road, rail, air, or water, Ohio has the connectivity and proximity that any ambitious entrepreneur could wish for.

Moreover, Ohio offers a business-friendly environment that encourages innovation and growth. The state’s government understands the importance of supporting businesses, and they have created a framework that fosters success. Low tax rates and various incentives set Ohio apart from many other states, attracting savvy entrepreneurs who wish to establish and expand their enterprises.

Ohio’s commitment to education and workforce development further elevates its status as a haven for businesses. The state boasts an impressive array of renowned universities and colleges, providing businesses with access to a highly educated and skilled workforce. Ohioans take immense pride in their work ethic, and businesses can rely on the dedication and commitment of their employees. The future of any business lies in its talented workforce, and Ohio ensures that businesses have access to the best and brightest minds.

When it comes to industry diversity, Ohio shines brightly as well. From manufacturing to aerospace, automotive to healthcare, Ohio’s economy endorses a variety of industries. This diverse economy not only strengthens the overall state economy but also provides immense opportunities to both established businesses and budding entrepreneurs. Whether your expertise lies in finance, technology, or any other field, Ohio embraces diversity and ensures that there is ample room for individuals with different skills and ideas to thrive.

Furthermore, Ohio also offers a high quality of life. Beyond its vibrant business community, the state provides an affordable cost of living, which is essential for attracting and maintaining a talented workforce. Ohio residents enjoy a range of amenities and recreational opportunities, including beautiful state parks and exciting sporting events. This enables businesses to both retain and attract top talent by offering a work-life balance that is unparalleled.

Last but not least, Ohio’s friendly people and strong sense of community reinforce the state’s appeal. Ohioans value tradition and family ties, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for businesses that choose to call the Buckeye State home. Ohio embraces collaboration and the spirit of entrepreneurship, making it easy for business owners to forge valuable connections and partnerships.

In conclusion, Ohio offers businesses a winning combination for success. From its prime location to its business-friendly environment, commitment to education and workforce development, diverse economy, high quality of life, and strong sense of community, Ohio stands tall as one of the best places for businesses to prosper. Entrepreneurs and established businesses alike can take advantage of the opportunities Ohio has to offer, tapping into a wealth of resources that will undoubtedly pave the way to their future success.

Conclusion

Starting a business in Ohio is a big step. It’s really helpful to have experts on your side. When you use a professional LLC service, you’re making sure everything is done right without any headaches. We’ve given you a list of the top choices in this article. Take your time to look at each one. Check their prices, see what they offer, and think about what’s best for your business.

Remember, picking the right Ohio LLC service can make things smoother and better for your business as it grows. If you want the best for your business, check out ZenBusiness. With their compelling offer of $0 + state fee for LLC formation, combined with an impressive array of 5-star Trustpilot reviews, they’re our number one recommendation. Seize this exceptional opportunity for your business!

Best LLC Formation Services in Ohio

1. ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness Plans

ZenBusiness Pros and Cons

ZenBusiness Overview

2. LegalZoom

LegalZoom Plans

LegalZoom Pros and Cons

LegalZoom Overview

3. Northwest Registered Agent

Northwest Plans

Northwest Registered Agent Pros and Cons

Northwest Registered Agent Overview

4. BetterLegal

BetterLegal Plans

BetterLegal Pros and Cons

BetterLegal Overview

5. TailorBrands

TailorBrands Services

TailorBrands Pros and Cons

TailorBrands Overview

How to Form an LLC in Ohio

How to Choose the Best LLC Formation Service in Ohio

Also Read

Why Ohio is One of the Best Places for Business

Why Ohio is One of the Best Places for Business

Why Ohio is One of the Best Places for Business

Why Ohio is One of the Best Places for Business

Conclusion

About Author & Editorial Staff

Steve Goldstein

Leave a Comment Cancel reply